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Olhão (Olhao) is municipality and town in the Algarve region of southern Portugal. The town has a pretty waterfront, a busy fishing harbour and a maze of cobbled back streets. It has over 45000 inhabitants, but hasn't lost its historic fishing village charm.
This is a place of simple pleasures.
In one direction, you'll find islands and nature to explore within the tranquil waters of the Ria Formosa. In the other, you'll enjoy beautiful architecture through to bucolic olive oil farm scenery within a countryside dotted with white houses. The attractions of Olhão make it a great place for a vacation full of sun, wildlife and a whole host of charms. Plus, you can find unique traditional craft items still being made by local artisans here - including the bright “sapatos de ourelo” slippers that were once worn by fishermen and farmers plus tiles, wooden ornaments, bags, belts and a unique tradition of wrought iron work.
This is one of the places you can see traditional tide mill and also tour a real working olive oil farm to see how extra virgin olive oil is created. When you're done, find a place for a tasty meal within the warren of narrow, twisting streets in the fishermen’s quarter of old Olhão. The square-sided white houses are photogenic, contrasted with windows and parapets edged with bands of grey and blue.
Olhão is a perfect place to recharge and enjoy wholesome adventure. Don't believe me? Watch my Olhão Travel Video on YouTube.
Still not convinced? Check out my ultimate guide to Olhão, starting with a list of Olhão highlights that offer great reasons why you should visit this charming coastal paradise on holiday...
Top 20 things to do in Olhão, Portugal
Top 20 things to do in Olhão, Portugal
Mercados de Olhão
- Mercados de Olhão
A historic space with a vibrant bazaar.
Waterfront market stalls, featuring fresh fruit and veg, local honey, and reasonably priced goods. Keep an eye out for almonds, figs and local olives. The brick building has a lot of character too.
Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Rosário e Capela de Nosso Senhor dos Aflitos
2. Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Rosário e Capela de Nosso Senhor dos Aflitos
2. Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Rosário e Capela de Nosso Senhor dos Aflitos
Beautiful church .
Historic church that's beautiful inside and out, with interesting Stork nests on the roof. There are cafeteria and shops near by. Don't miss the chapel at the back of the building!
Ria Formosa Natural Park
3. Ria Formosa Natural Park
3. Ria Formosa Natural Park
Islands, nature and pristine water to explore.
This marine park covers about 18,000 hectares and is made up of 5 barrier islands and 2 peninsulas. Explore on ferry for less than 1 euro, head out on a boat charter, hike the coastlines or play in the water on kayaks etc. There's days of fun out here!
Culatra Island
4. Culatra Island
4. Culatra Island
Walk out over the water and take in the stunning views!
It's home to the communities Farol, Hângares and Culatra. Explore the island's lighthouse, beaches & sheltered lagoon waters. You'll find wildlife and safe waters for sports plus great spots for underwater photography and videography.
Quinta de Marim (Centro Educação Ambiental de Marim)
6. Quinta de Marim (Centro Educação Ambiental de Marim)
6. Quinta de Marim (Centro Educação Ambiental de Marim)
An incredible diversity of wildlife in a single location.
The Quinta de Marim Environmental Education Centre is only 3km from the centre of Olhão. Learn about native animals, plants, and birds then stroll along the gorgeous walking paths to see them in the wild!
Praia dos Cavacos
7. Praia dos Cavacos
7. Praia dos Cavacos
Wading birds, peace and beauty.
Beyond the huts locals use for fishing and shellfish gathering, you'll find this unique estuary beach. Float in the calm sheltered water, surrounded by gleaming saltpans, against a backdrop of bright boats at anchor in the little bay.
Municipal Museum of Olhão (Museu Municipal de Olhão)
8. Municipal Museum of Olhão (Museu Municipal de Olhão)
8. Municipal Museum of Olhão (Museu Municipal de Olhão)
Interesting local archaeological and ethnographic exhibits.
This museum contains a fine collection of religious statuary and much more! When I visited, I found a fascinating exhibition on cubism in the architecture of Olhão (the "Olhão, Terra Cubista" exhibition).
Monterosa Olive Oil Farm
9. Monterosa Olive Oil Farm
9. Monterosa Olive Oil Farm
Become an extra virgin olive oil Aficionado.
Just outside of Olhão, you'll find this incredible experience. Discover authentic Portuguese olive tree culture, see how how olive oil is produced and learn about the origins of this mill that dates back to roman times.
Moinhos das Marés
10. Moinhos das Marés
10. Moinhos das Marés
Historic building, natural setting and modern fun!
Starting operations in 1875., this beautiful tidal mill in the Ria Formosa was used for almost a century. It has since been upgraded to provide accommodation and the Tapas Bar "Mó de cima" - offering regional specialties and chilling cocktails.
Music in Olhão:
Music in Olhão:
Olhão itself doesn't have a huge 'music scene' per se, but it lies in the heart of a rich music tradition and is home to evolving modern artists.
You'll find live jazz music at venues like the Cantaloupe Cafe. You'll also find some interesting Olhão-inspired artists on Bandcamp. I recommend you check out the hip-hop, rap and trap music of Olhão's Oliver Ghost, which features a slick use of the Portuguese language.
Originally a fishing village, Olhão has connections to the wider Algarve. Traditional working songs such as the 'leva-leva' were sung by fishermen to mark the rhythm of drawing in the nets in the Algarve region. Other folk music has a focus on dancing. The Algarve's folk music groups are hard to find! If you want a good taste of Algarve folk music culture, seek out corridinho, the baile de roda and the baile mandado dancing.
In wider Portugal, I'm loving music by Diogo Piçarra right now.
Top 6 Instagrammable Locations in Olhão, Portugal
Top 6 Instagrammable Locations in Olhão, Portugal
You'll find a lot of great photo locations around Olhão, especially if you explore the islands as well! It's hard to pick shoot locations. At a pinch, I'd say the top instagrammable location in Olhão are:
In a water taxi or tour boat out on the water on your way to Ilha da Armona (Armona Island).
In front of the Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Rosário.
Shopping inside the Mercados de Olhão
Looking out over the water beside a brightly painted boat at Praia dos Cavacos.
Drone shot above you as you walk to the Moinhos das Marés, with morning sunghine glistening on the water around you.
Popular hashtags for Olhão travel posts on instagram, facebook twitter and other social media include: #olhao #visitolhao #armonaisland #algarve #portugal #visitportugal #algarveportugal #visitalgarve #algarvecoast #algarvelovers #featuremealgarve ... and the location (e.g. #riaformosa) . Consider adding related hashtags such as #islandlife , #sunset , #praia and #beach, for example.
Island Paradise
Fun in Olhão: 10 Reasons you must visit Olhão
Fun in Olhão: 10 Reasons you must visit Olhão
Ok, let's wrap it up. I've told you about the fun experiences and simple pleasures. In a nutshell, you should visit Olhão for the:
Slow, relaxed and calming lifestyle.
Biodiversity and pristine coastline
Interesting architecture
Instagram worthy locations and experiences
Safe swimming environment
Easy hiking opportunities
Crystal clear water for underwater video and photography.
Character-filled waterfront venues and takeaways
Historic market featuring fresh produce and friendly locals
Continuing connection to cultural authenticity and traditions
When you combine these reasons with the fact that it isn't the 'same old same old' destination, Olhão should be on your bucket list!
Share your Olhao Tips!
Share your Olhao Tips!
I know there are even more things to do and see in Olhao and I want to hear ideas from you! Comment below or head over to our Travel Fun Music Community Facebook Page , Travel Inspiration Instagram account or join the Our Travel Addict Conversations on Twitter. You can also leave tips in the comments on the Travel Fun Music YouTube Channel . Use the #travelfunmusic hashtag and it’ll show up on our website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Olhão worth visiting?
Is Olhão worth visiting?
If you're visiting the Algarve Region of southern mainland Portugal, Olhão is well worth visiting both because of the charm of the place itself and also it serves as a great base to explore surrounding attractions including the islands of the Ria Formosa Natural Park marine area.
How do you pronounce Olhão?
How do you pronounce Olhão?
Olhão is pronounced 'ol-yowng'.
How far is Olhão from Faro Airport?
How far is Olhão from Faro Airport?
Olhão is around 14 km from Faro Airport via the N125, and it usually takes about 14 minutes to 26 minutes to travel between Faro Airport and Olhão.
How far is Olhão from Faro?
How far is Olhão from Faro?
Olhão is only around 11 km from the centre of Faro city via the N125, and it usually takes about 14 minutes to 25 minutes to travel between Faro and Olhão.
How do you get to olhao Portugal?
How do you get to olhao Portugal?
You can fly directly to Faro Airport and then take a taxi, bus or train from Faro. Or, you can fly into Lisbon and take the train from there. The train from Lisbon takes over four-hours journey to Faro where you can then take a short local train journey from Faro Station to Olhão train station. There are also train connections from other Algarve communities including Albufeira, Lagos, Loule, Tavira and Vila Real de San Antonio.
Does Olhão have a beach?
Does Olhão have a beach?
Yes, the little-known beach called Praia dos Cavacos is just to the east of town. Also, you can enjoy the stunning beaches on the Islands of the Ria Formosa that are a short boat ride from the Olhão marina.
Currency in Olhão
Currency in Olhão
The main currency is the Euro. There are a couple of currency exchange outlets in Olhão. You can exchange your currency when you arrive, or withdraw money through an ATM. Watch out for the Euronet ATMs and similar ATMs branded with 'foreign currency' maketing when you visit Portugal though. I suffered significant fees! The local bank ATMs provide currency at reasonable excange rates and minimal or no fees, with no problems.
Mobile Phone Service / Roaming in Olhão
Mobile Phone Service / Roaming in Olhão
Prepaid SIM cards are easy to buy, but it's easiest to buy them in a company branded shopfront. The main service providers are MEO, Vodafone, and NOS. It's easiest to get your SIM card at Olhão or in Faro Airport.
The calling code for Portugal is +351.
Getting Around Olhão
Getting Around Olhão
There are bus, train, ferry, and water taxi services within Olhão. The roads are perfect for cycling and walking too. It's flat and compact so walking is an easy option for most attractions, except where you need to cross the water.
Olhão Real Estate & Accommodation
Olhão Real Estate & Accommodation
Olhão Airbnb
Olhão Airbnb
You'll find great options and prices for in Airbnb homes in Olhão. But, note that it can be hard to find vacancies in accommodation during the peak season (July and August).
Best places to stay in Olhão (Hotels in Olhão)
Best places to stay in Olhão (Hotels in Olhão)
The most popular hotels in Armona Island are:
Hotel Cidade de Olhão: This hotel is housed in a building of classical architecture from the 50s of the last century.
Moinhos das Marés: Stay in a vintage tidal mill and enjoy architecture and food that's uniquely Portuguese.
Homeaway Olhão (VRBO)
Homeaway Olhão (VRBO)
There are usually a few VRBO homes in Olhão. You'll have a good chance of finding something available for a reasonable price. But, like with Airbnb, note that it can be hard to find vacancies in accommodation during the peak season (July and August).
Olhão Property for Sale
Olhão Property for Sale
Real Estate is popular here because it offers the epitome of a healthy, relaxed Algarve lifestyle. It pays to keep an eye on property websites like idealista.
Olhão Property for Rent
Olhão Property for Rent
You can find rentals listed on websites like idealista and simplyowners.
P.S. I've also received these questions. Don't worry - I haven't forgotten you folks! I just haven't had the chance to update this article to answer them yet! Sorry!
What to wear / what to pack for a trip to Olhão.
How To Enjoy The Water around Olhão
The Perfect Olhão Travel Itinerary (with a map to download)
10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Olhão
Top 10 Free Things To Do in Olhão
Top 10 Things You Can’t Miss in Olhão
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